Flight time: 2hrs 20 mins
Nestled in the heart of the California desert, Palm Springs is a popular vacation spot known for its hot springs, stunning views of the San Jacinto Mountains, and the midcentury retro vibes. If you’re planning a trip to Palm Springs, here are a few suggestions to make the most of your visit:
Take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Hop aboard the world’s largest rotating tramcar for a breathtaking 10-minute ride up the cliffs of Chino Canyon. Once you reach the top, enjoy stunning panoramic views of the valley below and take a hike through the surrounding mountains. There are also 52 miles of hiking trails to explore.
Discover our midcentury modern architecture and design which sets Palm Springs apart from any other destination. We have the largest concentration of midcentury architecture in the world. We celebrate it in October and February during Modernism Week. Discover it yourself on a bike ride through the many neighborhoods or book an architecture tour, like the Mod Squad Tour.
Explore the local art scene Palm Springs is home to a thriving arts and culture community, with numerous galleries, museums, and outdoor installations to explore. Check out the Palm Springs Art Museum or take an art walk through the Uptown Design District.
If you like the outdoors definitely explore Indian Canyons, where you can hike, picnic, and see stunning desert landscapes. It’s just minutes from downtown, but feels like you’ve been whisked away to a different place far away.
No matter what your interests, Palm Springs offers plenty of activities to keep you entertained. So why not plan your next getaway to this sunny oasis in the desert? Go to VisitPalmSprings.com and start planning today.
After over 200 years, the company remains in family hands. They believe that quality knives can only be made where high-precision production meets traditional artisanship, and for that there is no place like home. They have spent over two centuries honing both knives and technique to perfection, and they employ some of the world’s most skilled knife artisans to ensure that their premium blades are truly extraordinary.
WÜSTHOF is one of the few brands permitted to use the label “Made in Solingen” on their knives rather than the less restricted “Made in Germany.” Solingen, Germany is the steel manufacturing capital of the world. To bear the name Solingen, all key manufacturing stages must have
been processed and finished within Solingen, and the product must meet strict quality standards.
Inkwell sells Classic and Classic Ikon forged knives. The forged knives go through over 40 steps in the factory to create the top-quality blades WÜSTHOF has to offer. Forged knives include a bolster, which helps to balance the knife. Laser-cut stamped blades go through 14 steps in the factory and are more economically priced. They are lighter in weight and do not have a bolster.
The most important knife in any kitchen is the chef’s knife, and after that, it depends on your own personal preferences when cooking. Guten Appetit!
The S-Class is the centerpiece of the brand, and exemplifies the allure of Mercedes-Benz as legendary engineering expertise and a heritage of craftsmanship meet progressive digital innovation. The S-Class combines artificial intelligence with the experience gained from 135 years of automobile engineering. Around 70 years ago, Mercedes-Benz laid the foundations for this model series with the model 220. Since its market launch in 1951, more than 4 million S- Class Sedans have been delivered to customers around
the world. The designation “S-Class” was officially introduced with the 116 series in 1972. In the last 10 years the S-Class Sedan has been particularly popular in China, the USA, South Korea and Germany. All in all, since the launch of the generation that is now in its runout phase, more than 500,000 S-Class Sedans have been sold globally. The S-Class exemplifies the allure of Mercedes-Benz, combined with the legendary and traditional engineering expertise that defines the luxury segment in the automobile industry.
Don’t wait until something is obviously wrong with your eyes to get them checked. Most eye issues can be prevented, detected, and treated before they get to the point of long-term damage.
Benefits of an annual eye exam include:
1. Catching eyesight changes early-on and correcting them.
Gregory Valle, OD
2. Testing your visual acuity, discovering issues such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness, astigmatism, color blindness, poor hand-eye coordination or visual perception and difficulties with the eyes’ ability to work together for tracking, teaming, and focusing.
3. Detecting glaucoma in its early stages, when there is still time to act before it worsens.
4. Identification of headaches, eye strain, fatigue, dryness, discomfort, or any visual issues.
5. Flagging potential problems with certain medications that cause vision problems and helping prevent further damage.
WELCOME TO THE BIGGEST ISSUE OF WILLAMETTE LIVING WE’VE EVER DONE! WHEW… THIS MAKES ME HAVE A WHOLE NEW APPRECIATION FOR THE SEPTEMBER VOGUE ISSUE, WITH 720 PAGES! HOW DO THEY EVEN DO THAT!? I CAN’T IMAGINE.
Each year, my favorite season is marked by planting tomatoes and cucumbers in my backyard. That task has been completed, and I’m looking forward to everything summer, including delicious salads! I have a long-time childhood friend who was in part responsible for the first genetically engineered (flavorless) tomato, I’ll have to rib him about that again when we’re taking a little break together in Sisters. He now knows that was a bad move, but that doesn’t stop me.
While you’re enjoying a little summer down time, browse our Best of the Valley winners! As always, the counting took a while, but we soldiered through, and the winners are listed in this issue! Congrats to our perennial winners like The Natty Dresser, Inkwell Home Store, and Sybaris, and welcome to our new winners like Grazing Oregon Charcuterie, and Precision Medical Aesthetics.
grats Calapooians! (Is that a word? If not, it is now.) We have a new section, “Artists Spotlight” and our artist for this issue is Rebecca Kiser or McMinnville. She paints dreamy landscapes and was a gracious host for a few photos in her fabulous new studio that was designed by her son Daniel. It was good thinking of her to raise an architect!
This issue’s getaway is to Newberg, OR. Take a look, and take a drive! There are lots of fun things to do. And our “City Gems” feature is Portland’s Alberta Arts District – peak Portland.
In the food department, our winner this year in our “Best Mexican Food” category is everybody’s (and we mean everybody) favorite, La Rokita. They’re our featured eatery this time, and if you haven’t been there, it’s a great summer dining option. And, as an added benefit, their website works great – easy to order, and food is ready when you get there.
As always, thanks for reading Willamette Living, and have a great summer!
Our local galleries all have a lot going on right now, Gallery Calapooia in Albany is celebrating their tenth anniversary! Con-
No problem! You can still keep up with the best the Willamette Valley has to offer in Willamette Living, on your iPad! Just browse our website and tap the "Digital Issue" in the top right side. And on the digital issue, most of the links you see in the magazine are live! Just tap to check them out. It works great and it looks great.
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For information about these events and more visit www.WillametteLiving.com/events
July 6--9
Marion County Fair
Salem
July 7—9
Oregon Country Fair
Veneta
July 13--15
Linn County Fair
Albany
July 19--23
Lane County Fair
Eugene
August 2--5
Yamhill County Fair
McMinnville
August 2--5
Benton County Fair
Corvallis
August 9--12
Polk County Fair
Rickreall
August 25—September 4
Oregon State Fair
Salem
Sarjé Haynes’ Neural Magic for Freedom and Fun
New Zone Gallery, 110 E. 11th in Eugene
July 7 @ 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM FREE
This show is about Transformational Integration through Creative Play. As a Spiritual Archaeologist, Sarjé creates artwork that explores the mysteries of personal ancestry. By building up layers of marks and mediums, she explores realms unknown. This personal practice yields a powerful experience of self-healing which allows Sarjé to change her mind. This is the practice of Neural Magic.
On the Web: sarje.art Sarjé on Instagram: Instagram
WAAAM Traffic Jam – A Car Show and More
July 9th 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
1600 Air Museum Rd. Hood River 541-308-1600 FREE
Fundraiser for The Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum.
What: Food. Fun. Music. Come to a museum, a car show, and a museum parts swap all in one great place. Don’t miss all fun activities such as technical sessions and riding in some historic vehicles. Your support in this fundraiser helps keep WAAAM’s engines running! There is something for everyone.
Check out all the cool photos from our past events on our website!
Corvallis Arts Walk
July 20 4 – 8 PM
CAW (Corvallis Art Walk) The Corvallis Art Walk (CAW) is a monthly celebration put on by local artists on the third Thursday of each month. Check out the stunning visual art at downtown venues to enjoy the creative spirit of the Corvallis community. Venues include The Art Center, Conundrum House/Remarkable Arts, Pegasus Gallery, Terra Viva Gallery, Truckenbrod Gallery, Art in the Valley, and Reynolds Law Firm.
Thank you to our Trophy Sponsors! Vehicles (all types including cars, motorcycles, trucks, etc.) are welcome to participate in the show. Enjoy the car show and other fun activities with judging and prizes for entrants and drawings for visitors. WAAAM is located three miles from downtown Hood River at 1600 Air Museum Road, Hood River, OR 97031.
www.waaamuseum.org
Summer
www.WillametteLiving.com/events
Conundrum House Presents: An AMATEUR Poker Tournament!
July 23rd 4 to 8 PM
460 SW Madison Ave. Ste 16
Conundrum House is tickled to offer our first-ever AMATEUR Poker Tournament to players from the region. There are only 32 spots available, so get registered today!
$50 Buy-in, with a 2nd buy-in opportunity during the tournament. All entrance money goes back to the winners as cash prizes (Conundrum House does not receive any money from the buy-ins).
No outside food may be brought in for the tournament, food from our favorite vendors will be available.
Website: Conundrum.house
Black Artists of Oregon, highlighting and celebrating the work of Black artists in and outside of the collection, will serve to deepen awareness of the talented artists that have shaped and inspired artists regionally and nationally. The exhibition will be the first of its kind to consider the work of Black artists collectively in Oregon, often underrepresented and unacknowledged. Beginning in the 1920s through today, the exhibition captures the African American experience particular to the Pacific Northwest. Among those included in the exhibition will be: Al Goldsby, Thelma Johnson Streat, Isaka Shamsud-Din, Ralph Chessé, Arvie Smith, Shedrich Williames, Harrison Branch, Robert Colescott, Adriene Cruz, Charlotte Lewis, and Carrie Mae Weems. This exhibition will be guest curated by artist Intisar Abioto. In Abioto’s own artistic practice, she has been documenting Black figures in Portland since 2013, through interviews, photography, research, and performance, filling the region’s own historical gaps.
The Museum’s Re:Imagine Artist Fund is providing the seed funding to Abioto for her research and planning. Lead support provided by the Terra Foundation for American Art.
Guest curated by artist Intisar Abioto.
Presenting Sponsors
Institute of Museum and Library Services
Meyer Memorial Trust
Lead Sponsor
Terra Foundation for American Art
Major Sponsor
The Ford Family Foundation
Sponsors
Ed Cauduro Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation
Oregon Heritage Commission
The Arlene and Harold Schnitzer
Endowment for Northwest Art Museum’s Artist Fund
August 11 to September 2
Written by Simon Stephens based on a novel by Mark Haddon
Directed by Debbie Neel
“This smartly written and insightful play offers hope and love in the end, even if things aren’t perfect. And how we see and respond to that journey to love and hope and second chances sort of tells us more about ourselves and how we see the world …” MD Theatre Guide
SPONSORED BY DUCHESS AND THE MUNCHKIN
Auditions for Tony Award winner A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder July 8 at Pentacle Theatre
What: Open auditions for the Tony Award winner for Best Musical, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, with music by Steven Lutvak, lyrics by Lutvak and Robert L. Freedman, and book by Freedman. Directed at Pentacle Theatre by Loriann Schmidt.
When: 1 p.m.–5 p.m., Saturday, July 8.
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Avenue NW, off Highway 22 about 6 miles west of downtown Salem.
Casting call: Casting five lead actors and 6–10 ensemble actors. Ensemble actors play a variety of roles, including featured solos. For a full list of roles, genders, ages and vocal ranges, visit pentacletheatre.org/auditions for more info.
Tickets and information: 503-485-4300
ww.pentacletheatre.org
Woodworkers Guild, the Willamette Ceramics Guild, and the Contemporary Fiber Arts Guild will be on site to sell their wares, demonstrate their techniques and offer information about joining their groups. The event is free, begins at 10am and ends at 5pm on Saturday, August 5th
The Corvallis Art Guild is celebrating it’s 60th Annual Clothesline Sale of Art by moving to a larger venue and expanding its offerings. The new location will be the east end of Central Park in Corvallis, under large shade trees to protect artists and visitors from the hot August sun. The celebration will include local fine arts and artisan crafts for sale, an en plein air paint out by the Vista & Vineyards painters’ group and family-focused
art-filled fun for children of all ages. Kids can enjoy art experience at the Maxtivity Arts & Crafts Experience booth or learn about The Science of Art with visiting Fulbright Scholar Dr Derek Fish. Dr Fish is an entertaining speaker and leader in STEAM education. Maxtivity, a Philomath based arts education hub, will also have their creatively designed kinetic sculpture “The Glory” on display in the park. Other local artisan guilds, including the Mid-Willamette
The Around Oregon Biennial exhibit at The Corvallis Art Center is a chance for people in the Mid-Willamette Valley to experience artworks by contemporary artists living in all parts of Oregon. The exhibition recognizes the quality and diversity in the creative expression of artists. The purpose of the exhibit is to show working artists from many backgrounds and origins and bring emerging and established artists together. This year the Around Oregon Biennial will be juried by Ashley Stull-Meyers. Ashley is a writer, editor, and cultural worker, currently serving as the Thomas Hart and Mary Jones Horning Chief Curator of Art, Science, and Technology at Oregon State University. She had this to say about her jury process: “The contemporary arts ecosystem of Oregon was once known for its underground sensibilities – DIY aesthetics, experimental practices, craft, and a unique lens for landscape. As many parts of the state struggle to remain economically viable sites for arts production and artist support, Around Oregon 2023 seeks to honor the artists holding fast to the previously described legacy. The selected artist's works venture from traditional conceptions of their medium, and showcase Oregon for all that is strange, wild, and fighting to regrow.” The show runs from August 5th through September 9th, with a reception on August 17th from 5:30 to 7pm.
The Arts Center hosts artist Heidi
Keith in the Corrine Woodman Gallery in a show titled “Young on the Water” This portrait series of young people are paintings that address the power and vulnerability of adolescence and how the body interacts with the natural world. Oregon artist Heidi Keith has been focused on adolescent care since she was barely an adult. Keith’s work depicts the precarious stage of life between childhood and adulthood. She sees an analogy between the earth and young people – beautiful, powerful, complicated, and vulnerable to the destructive facets of our increasingly complex society.
Keith uses a limited palette; it is a way of trying to understand a scene by simplifying it. Water is key to her media and often her content. Water is a core component of life and the body, but it is also somewhat uncontrollable and does what it wants – a building block of life and also a cause of erosion. Water is an unpredictable and striking force in painting, and in nature. In this body of work, water is both the content of the artist’s work, as well as a commentary on the fluid nature of youth and the turbulent society young people exist within. The show runs from July 5th through August 5th, with a reception on July 7th from 5:30 to 7pm.
The Corvallis Modern Quilt Guild includes quilters from around the mid-Willamette Valley who explore this traditional craft in new, creative ways. Founded in December 2012 as a chapter of the national Modern Quilt Guild, their mission is to support and encourage the growth and development of modern quilting through art, education, and the community. The Guild will be exhibiting their work in the Moreland Gallery of the Philomath Museum from July 29th through September 9th.
The Corvallis Arts Walk (CAW) is a grass-roots organized art walk that takes place on the 3rd Thursday of each month in downtown Corvallis from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Galleries, studios, arts and crafts stores and the occasional pop-up keep their doors open late to host an art-related event or demonstration. Walking maps of the event can be picked up at the Visit Corvallis office, 113 SW 3rd Street, Alley Suite 101, Corvallis.
Artist Quote of the month: "You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have." -
Maya Angelou
The Arts Center Hours Noon to 5pm Tuesday through Saturday (at time of publication, please check website for updates) • 541-754-1551 www.theartscenter.net
HOW DO YOU MAKE A DREAM INTO REALITY? THAT QUESTION WAS ON THE MINDS OF A GROUP OF ARTISTS FROM THE ALBANY AREA, IN THE MID-WILLAMETTE VALLEY, TEN YEARS AGO.
The talent level and creative drive that existed in the artist community greatly exceeded the opportunities to display artwork in an ongoing gallery setting. Many artists found fleeting opportunities to show and sell their work in seasonal shows or festivals, holiday galleries, or limited-duration exhibitions in select local venues. What was missing was a place where the public could come, week in and week out, and be able to view and purchase art pieces created by artists from their own community. So, these artists got together and pooled their time, funds, ideas, and determination, and created their own cooperative art gallery. Taking advantage of a newly refurbished space in one of the loveliest buildings in the city’s historic downtown, the artists settled on a name that was rooted in Albany’s history. The city was founded in the middle of the 19th century at the confluence of the Willamette and Calapooia
Rivers, and it is the latter that was the inspiration for the gallery’s name: Gallery Calapooia.
(An important historical note: The name “Calapooia” is an alternate phonetic spelling of Kalapuya, one of many tribes of Indigenous peoples who have called this land home for thousands of years. They managed the land for hunting and gathering, and traded with other tribes throughout what is now known as the Willamette River Valley and beyond. This confluence of rivers was as important to their activities as it is for ours, and undoubtedly some of them had prized artwork for sale or trade at this location for centuries before the founding of Albany.)
Those 19 founding artists, of whom 5 remain as members, charted a path for dozens of area artists to be able to fulfill a dream of being a member of an art gallery. In 2018, the gallery celebrated five years in existence, and truthfully that longevity may have come as a bit of a surprise to some people. But the quality and variety of the work those artists created should have reassured them otherwise.
Since that milestone, the gallery has continued to evolve, mature, and improve. Display spaces were expanded, and lighting improvements now better showcase the work. What was initially a gallery that was heavy on two-dimensional offerings has evolved to now feature work from award winning glass artists, woodworkers, ceramic and porcelain artists, textile artists, and jewelers, as well as those artists whose work you would hang on the wall!
The art world is a notoriously difficult one in which to see sustained financial success. When hard times come, art can often be the first thing that consumers decide they can do without. And in the past few years, the phrase “hard times” has taken on a particularly pointed meaning. In March of 2020, like so many other businesses, the gallery closed its doors with no clear sense of when we might reopen. The cooperative nature of our business structure meant that the gallery was ineligible for the kinds of assistance that was a lifeline to so many beloved local businesses. So we hunkered down, tightened our proverbial belts, and made plans for how we might continue as a gal-
lery. What we discovered, upon reopening in June of 2020, was just how much our community appreciated what we had come to represent. We don’t simply sell beautiful things; our community involvement runs deeper. Several of our artists serve on Arts Commissions or county Cultural Coalitions. Many volunteer as skilled painters at Albany’s Historic Carousel, a jewel in Albany’s diverse tourism crown. And every February since 2018, we’ve dedicated our two front “Featured Artist” panels to the public in the form of the “Big Show of Little Art”, or as we refer to it, the “8 x 8 show.” Community members may enter artwork that fits an 8” x 8” space, and each year visitors to our gallery are treated to a glimpse of the artistic talent that exists in our community beyond our own member artists. The featured panels are filled with beautiful small works of all kinds! So while it may again come as a surprise to some that an art gallery like ours could survive for ten years (and counting!), the current members are determined – through a combination of quality, imaginative work, an enjoyable space, community involvement, and continued business savvy – to exist as a part of Albany’s vibrant downtown experience for years to come!
This year, the current membership of 21 artists was adamant that this ten-year milestone be celebrated with the community that has enabled the continued success of the gallery. And by “community” we mean both local and farther afield; the gallery has sold works to people hailing from every continent but Antarctica. We routinely find ourselves chatting with shoppers who have made the drive from other parts of Oregon just to enjoy Gallery Calapooia’s unique artistic and shopping appeal! (We are, after all, a 2022 Willamette Living “Best Of” award winner for art!) Our “First Friday” receptions showcasing each month’s featured artist(s) are a staple on “What to do in Albany” lists. So, it’s fitting that the July 7, 2023 First Friday reception be the setting for our 10th anniversary celebration! We will be featuring select works from many past members, as well as the latest work from current members. Catering and other reception details are still being worked out, but you can be assured that it will be worth planning a trip to downtown Albany that evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. – or any time, for that matter!
Gallery Calapooia is ADA accessible, and welcomes all visitors. Hours: Tues-Fri, 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m, and by appointment: (541) 971-5701
Find us at 222 1st Ave West, at www.gallerycalapooia.com, or on Instagram/Facebook: @gallerycalapooia
John Mikkelson, a member artist since Feb 2020, is the current president of Gallery Calapooia’s board of directors, and one of the gallery’s two woodworkers. See some of his latest work in “A River Runs Through Them”, on page 25.
REBECCA KISER IS A LONGTIME RESIDENT OF MCMINNVILLE, AND FOR MANY YEARS POURED HER CREATIVE ENERGY INTO RAISING FIVE CHILDREN AND CARING FOR HER WIDOWED MOTHER. On the side, she painted sets for high school and middle school plays, Gallery Theater, and murals for the annual Mayor’s Charity Ball. Now, with children grown and her mother’s passing, her attention has turned to fine art painting inspired by the beauty of Western Oregon. Her work has been shown at the Marilyn Affolter Fine Art Gallery, Land and Sea Gallery, the annual Yamhill County Art Harvest Studio Tour, and most recently in the Giustina Gallery at Oregon State University. She is currently featured in a show, "The Heavens Declare His Glory", at the Narthex Gallery in Historic downtown McMinnville. The show runs through July 30.
Her paintings don’t attempt to replicate exactly what is seen, but the emotion felt in observing nature, especially light, clouds and trees. The intersection of atmosphere and earth intrigues her, and she sees deep spiritual symbolism in the way that the earth reaches for heaven through plants and trees, and heaven descends earthward in clouds and rain.
Rebecca views her painting process as a metaphor for life. She may start with a plan, but it inevitably changes as design problems are created, confronted and solved. This resembles a life cycle as a painting begins like a “child”, full of life and promise, before entering the “teen years”, where the battles ensue. Eventually the painting reaches “maturity” and is comfortable with what it has become. She prefers painting with acrylics because they allow so much flexibility and can be manipulated quickly.
Her hope is that when people view her work, it prompts a feeling, a memory, or a connection they’ve had with this beautiful world. She’s excited to share her work and her painting process in a new studio designed by her architect son Daniel, and made possible by her generous and supportive husband. She hopes you will come visit her there at the Art Harvest Studio Tour in October.
Metal Artist
Gallery Calapooia
Featured Artist
August 2023
Ihave always loved color, especially in nature. Spring brings the many shades of green playing across our fields and trees, summer has the colors changing to golds and browns, fall fills us with reds, yellows and oranges mixed in with the greens and winter highlights the gray skies muting the colors.
Many years ago, I wanted to learn how to use these colors to enhance the jewelry I make out of copper, silver, and gold. Metals themselves have great color ranges in their natural state but adding color can enrich designs.
For this show, I will be using many of the following techniques to color silver and copper jewelry.
Electroplating – Gold is deposited on silver using electricity that is passed through a solution of gold onto silver.
Nanoceramic Plating – Similar to electroplating but using a solution that contains nanoceramic color particles that are deposited on copper or silver and then heated to affix the color to the metal.
Patinas – This is a thin layer that forms on the surface of metals, either naturally occurring, created with fire or by adding chemicals to the surface of the metal.
Vitreous Enamels – Powdered glass is applied to copper or silver and heated in a kiln to around 1500 degrees to melt the glass onto the metal surface.
Powder Coating - Dry, free-flowing, thermoplastic or thermoset powder material is applied to a surface, melted, and hardened into an even coating.
Inks and Paints – India, Alcohol, Acrylic and Vintaj are types of inks/paints that can be applied to metals with a paint brush.
ALBANY WOODWORKER JOHN MIKKELSON HAS ALWAYS LOOKED FOR WAYS TO MAXIMIZE THE USAGE OF PARTICULARLY BEAUTIFUL BOARDS.
Smaller pieces that might end up being discarded by many woodworkers have found life as keyrings, bookmarks, and other diminutive ideas over the years. As a result, he has a growing collection of small boards that await a good, and perhaps novel, use!
Over the past few years, most anyone who has been paying close attention to the world of woodworking has seen wood and epoxy resin – usually tinted vibrant colors – married together, in designs ranging from cutting boards to conference tables. Intrigued by the design possibilities, but never really one to jump on a bandwagon, John has taken his time to come up with artful ways to use epoxy in his own works. One day, working with a particularly uniquely-grained board in his shop, it occurred to him that it looked like a landscape that a river might flow through. It would have made a fabulous table, except for one detail: the board was
only about the width of a drink coaster. And from there the idea took off…
For months, the creative process took over as John looked through his supply of boards with a new eye, digging out those relative few that seemed like a river might be found “flowing” through their distinct grain! Depending on the board, these designs permitted a matching set of four to six coasters that, when (re)assembled in order, make a beautiful, one-of-a-kind river landscape.
Here’s a quick look behind the scenes: For each board, John hand-draws the river making its way from one end to the other, then carefully cuts these lines at the bandsaw before preparing each resulting pair of “riverbanks” for a pour of epoxy resin. Given the difference in wood grain from board to board, and even within a single board, each set of coasters created in this way is truly unique, portraying a make-believe river that you can enjoy on your tabletop! After giving each completed river board the same kind of finish that would go on a piece of fine furniture, John hand-cuts them, then identifies the
underside of each coaster with the set number and its position in the set – e.g., “Set #22, 3/6” He signs and dates the final coaster in each set, marking them as the work of an artist.
The next challenge is already in mind: creating coaster sets that portray a segment of an actual river somewhere in our world! But until then, John will be creating these unique sets, and offering them to the public at Gallery Calapooia in historic Downtown Albany, (see article pg. 20) where he has been a member artist since 2020. He is also a returning vendor this year at “Art and Wine in the Garden,” at Garland Nursery in Corvallis, July 29-30. While he is always considering the next woodworking challenge to take on, these useful works of art will remain a staple in his portfolio for quite a while! So, the next time you’re in Albany, perhaps you’ll find a river you can bring home (and other beautiful artwork as well!) with a stop at an art gallery that has once again been awarded “Best of the Valley” by Willamette Living Magazine.
A second full-length book of traditional poetry from this bestselling author And Yet dives deeper into the themes that are the hallmarks of her writing: motherhood, friendship, love, and loss. Taken together, these poems demonstrate the remarkable evolution of a writer and an artist working at the height of her craft, pushing herself and her poetry in a beautiful and impressive way.
(Nonfiction)
This sequel finds Corayne embracing her power and wielding her father's powerful sword to become the hero she's destined to be when more portals to horrifying alternate worlds open up. (Young Adult Fiction)
The Book Eaters by Sunyi Dean
Part of The Family, a secret line of people for whom books are food, Devon, raised on a carefully curated diet of fairytales and cautionary stories, discovers that real life doesn’t always come with happy endings when her son is born with an insatiable hunger for human minds. (Fiction)
Take a journey through eightyseven of the emotions and experiences that define what it means to be human. A universe where we can share and steward the stories of our bravest and most heartbreaking moments with one another in a way that builds connection.
(Nonfiction)
The Book of Accidents:
Haunted by their tragic pasts, Nate and Maddie Graves move back to their hometown with their son, Oliver, who becomes involved with a strange boy who has a taste for dark magic that puts them at the heart of a battle of good vs evil. (Fiction)
A Kafkaesque dark comedy in brilliant retro style, this graphic novel watches one man try to keep it together while everything falls apart. Upon the publication of his latest novel, embarks on a book tour to promote it. Nothing is going according to plan, and his trip gradually turns into a nightmare. But now the police want to ask him some questions about a mysterious disappearance, and it seems that Fretwell's troubles are only just beginning. (Graphic Novel)
Walking away from her loveless marriage and taking a job in a derelict, financially devastated town, 63-year-old Britt-Marie uses her fierce organizational skills to become a local soccer coach to a group of lost children, becoming a vital community member along the way. By the author of A Man Called Ove. (Fiction)
Adventurous Elvia Hill is fed up with her overly cautious parents, who never allow her to take risks or do anything fun. She feels trapped, but when her mother wins a lottery for a wildlife safari, everything changes. Her parents are worried for her safety in the African bush, but Elvia’s thrilled, so they take her along anyway, hoping for the best.
by Cassandra Clare
Return to the world of the Shadowhunters, where a young warrior immerses herself in elite supernatural salons before an outbreak of demon attacks places London under quarantine.
(Young Adult Fiction)
by Katherine Schulten
A compilation of creative responses from teenagers-essays, poetry, cartoons, drawings, et al.--to the events of 2020 including but not limited to the pandemic, the election, and the Black Lives Matter protests. .
(Nonfiction)
To their horror, their worst fears come true. Elvia disappears, apparently snatched and eaten by a lion! A massive search ensues, involving a bushman tracker, a delusional lion expert, and a kind, local couple who run a non-profit called Parents of Swallowed Children. But despite all their efforts, they can’t find her, for she’s not where they think she is. She’s on a distant two-mooned planet, instead, sailing aboard a luxurious cruising submarine with a queenly “uppy,” and a friendly, lively, sailor-boy-pirate with the unlikely name of Rats!
About the Author: Ruthy Ballard is a children’s book author, artist, and scientist who lives in Newport, Oregon. By day, she’s “Dr. Ruth Ballard,” a professor and forensic DNA expert. By night, she romps in an imaginative world of colors and words that has been her playground since childhood.
Ruthy is the author of Frankie and the Gift of Fantasy and Tales by Moons-Light: Stories from Before the Great Melt. The third book in her Tales by Moons-light series, Elvia and the Gift of Passion, was published April 5, 2023.
As a child, Ruthy loved science, but was intimidated by it. It wasn’t until she joined a group called the San Francisco Sidewalk Astronomers that she overcame her fear. As she traveled with huge, colorful telescopes through the national parks, sharing the wonders of the Universe with the general public, she realized that science was for everyone, when delivered in an entertaining, accessible way.
AFTER CELEBRATING THE SPIRIT OF WOMEN BEGINNING JUNE 1ST, 2023, THE FESTIVE WILD WOMEN SHOW WILL CLOSE ON JULY 7TH, 2023. It is always a fun and delightful to see what artists create for this exhibit. We plan to be back next year and will keep everyone posted!
As Summer begins we have several art offerings to enjoy. In July and August our window will display art pieces made from wood, glass or metal. Our Focus Show Artist will be Richard Bunse in August and September. Also, Sunday Drawing at the Gallery will continue the 3rd Sunday of each month from 1:00-2:00 pm.
Focus Show - Richard Bunse
Richard Bunse's watercolors and acrylic paintings are influenced by his intimate knowledge of the rivers, forests, and beautiful pastoral valleys of Western Oregon. His studio adjoins River Gallery.
Richard teaches drawing classes and manages a life
drawing studio for local artists and students at the gallery. Richard's drawings and watercolors have illustrated many national sporting magazines, including the fine press limited edition of the Diaries of Rodrick Haig-Brown. Richard studied art at Western Oregon University in Monmouth, where he lives with his wife Carol.
Our Window Exhibit will include a variety of artists who create their art with wood, glass or metal. This should be an appealing display to view while you are walking by the gallery…just be sure to pop in and enjoy the art inside as well!
River Gallery 184 S Main Street Independence, OR. 97531 503-838-6171
Gallery Hours: Thursday - Sunday from 12:00pm-5:00pm
It is an FDA-approved treatment that offers a non-surgical alternative to address excess fat in this area.
The active ingredient in Kybella is deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that helps in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into the submental fat, Kybella causes the destruction of fat cells, leading to a noticeable reduction in the fullness under the chin.
Here are some key points to know about Kybella:
Procedure: Kybella is administered through a series of injections performed by a qualified healthcare professional. The number of injections and treatment sessions required can vary depending on the amount of submental fat and the desired results.
Safety: Kybella is generally considered safe when administered by a trained professional. However, like any medical procedure, it carries some risks and potential side effects, which may include swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, redness, or difficulty swallowing. It's essential to discuss your medical history and any concerns with a healthcare provider before undergoing Kybella treatment.
Results and Recovery: After each Kybella treatment, there is typically some swelling and tenderness in the treated area, which can last for several days to a few weeks. Over time, the destroyed fat cells are naturally eliminated by the body, resulting in a more defined chin and jawline. The full effects of Kybella may take a few weeks or months to become apparent, and multiple sessions may be necessary to achieve the desired outcome.
Suitability: Kybella is suitable for individuals with moderate to severe submental fat who wish to improve the appearance of their chin and profile without undergoing surgery. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, such as those with infections in the treatment area, bleeding disorders, or certain medical conditions. A consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial to determine if Kybella is an appropriate treatment for you.
Alternative Treatments: In addition to Kybella, there are other treatment options for reducing submental fat, such as liposuction or certain types of cosmetic surgery. These procedures may offer more immediate results but typically involve more significant invasiveness and downtime.
It's important to note that while Kybella can provide effective results for reducing submental fat, it does not address other concerns such as sagging skin or excess fat in different areas of the face or body. If you have broader cosmetic goals, it's advisable to discuss them with a qualified healthcare provider who can guide you toward the most suitable options.
Precision Medical Aesthetics is founded and created by Tracee Jon Dahlke, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Tracee has a background in both fashion and medicine which led her to her dream career working in the medical aesthetics industry.
PMA Med Spa features various independent contractors that specialize in skin care and aesthetics, making PMA Med Spa the one stop shop for all your aesthetic needs.
Located in Central NE Portland and anchored at the east end by Alberta Rose Theater, this lively, walkable street is home to dozens of shops, restaurants, food carts, and galleries. Creativity abounds with wall art, murals, and statues mingled up and down NE Alberta Street amid retro, vintage, and unique businesses.
Alberta Rose Theater
3000 NE Alberta Street
albertarosetheatre.com
With seating for 300, Alberta Rose Theater is a performance venue for acoustic acts in an intimate setting. Originally built in 1928 as a movie theater, it is now a popular destination for viewing live music and comedy and art house films. A calendar of events and tickets are available from their website.
Open since 2010, this shop carries new, used, and hard-to-find books on art, architecture, and design. They also have vintage prints, original art, and magazines in the store as well as on-line.
2639 NE Alberta Street
www.instagram.com/parallelworldsbookshop
For over 25 years, the district has hosted an ‘open house’ on the last Thursday of each month. Live music, street performances, and gallery receptions have attracted crowds coming to enjoy an evening in the neighborhood.
Guardino Gallery
2939 NE Alberta Street guardinogallery.com is the OG on the street having opened in 1996 and shares their building with ceramics, jewelry, and paper arts businesses as well as an Iraqi restaurant, DarSalam. They host three new installations a year and often feature local artists. Both their gallery and on-line shop carry items from past and current exhibitors. Other galleries on the street include: Antler Gallery antlerpdx.com, Talon Gallery talongallery.com, and Alberta Street Gallery albertastreetgallery.com
Book lovers travel to the district to shop in the interesting collection of specialty bookstores.
Monograph Bookwerks
5005 NE 27th Avenue
www.monographbookwerks.com
Specializing in the science fiction and fantasy genres, Parallel Worlds sells new and used books including rarer, early works (17th C.) to modern day and many by women authors. They host a monthly book club too.
www.greenbeanbookspdx.
www.twinstarastrology.com
Abyssinian Kitchen
2940 NE Alberta Street
abyssiniankitchen.com
Family-owned and operated, Abyssinian Kitchen first opened in SE Portland in 2015 and in 2021, relocated to their current light, bright corner location. Serving Ethiopian and Eritrean food, the friendly staff is happy to make suggestions and explain the dishes, many with locally-sourced vegetables, meat, fish, and poultry. The restaurant has a full bar menu including specialty cocktails with African ingredients. We tried Sambusa (pastry filled with lentils), Awaze Tibs (sautéed beef chunks in awaze sauce), and Atakilti Alicha (potato, cabbage, and carrot stew) and all were wonderful.
made in small batches with natural ingredients. Besides the traditional favorites, they have elevated, innovated, and blended world cultures to create new flavors and toppings, many of them vegan. Mango Lassi is most popular but they also do seasonal collabs and mash-ups. Their bike cart is a fixture at farmers markets around the metro area during the summer.
2303 NE Alberta Street
www.stumptownkilts.com
This one-of-a-kind shop sells a modern version of the traditional kilt. After spending a year coming up with the perfect design, they began selling daily-wear, uber-durable kilts in 2010, and now have styles in three fabrics: poly-cotton, 100% cotton ripstop, and 100% organic cotton duck (the last one catering to welders, blacksmiths, and farriers.) All have built-in sporrans but they sell attachable pockets for extra storage and StumpTown Kilts has women’s styles too. In addition to the retail store, they can also be found on-line, and at regional highland games and beer festivals throughout the summer.
this store and their on-line shop display and stock products year-round offering customers a great way to shop small and local.
1906 NE Alberta Street
ecovibestyle.com
Two generations of family members own and run this store that is filled with lifestyle inspiration for an urban dweller. House plants are their big draw but they also have a well-curated selection of home décor, furniture, accessories, and gift items. A portion of their profits go
towards local social and environmental non-profits. They have an on-line shop and a second location on SE Hawthorne Street.
Just Bob's Coffee
2403 NE Alberta Street
www.justbobpdx.com
Housed in an old Rexall Drug Store, Just Bob’s is a self-professed “unicorn café”… hard to find these days. But this cozy, busy-with-neighbors coffee shop, has a full offering of coffee drinks and breakfast and lunch food items. They have an ‘adult beverages’ menu too, served all day and even fill beer growlers. We chose the wild, line-caught Alaskan Salmon lox on a bagel with cream cheese, red onion, and capers…yum!
Kulfi
5009 NE 15th Avenue
www.kulfipdx.com
Opening in 2022 after beginning life as a bike cart, Kulfi sells a traditional, SW Asian street dessert similar to an ice cream bar
2022 NE Alberta Street
craftywonderland.com
Crafty Wonderland’s brick and mortar stores (they also have a Downtown Portland location) grew out of their
FOR THIS ISSUE WE SPOKE TO PERENNIAL BEST OF THE VALLEY (PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY) WINNER HOLLY PETERSON FROM THE BALL PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO ABOUT WHAT IT TAKES TO MAKE A GREAT PORTRAIT.
WL: Hi Holly, it seems like now that everyone has a smart phone, everybody is a photographer. What do you do that makes your portraits so much better?
HP: Yes, I think I read somewhere that the average user has around 2,100 photos on their phone. So, I often wonder too why our little studio keeps being busy. But, you know just yesterday one of my clients was viewing her family images from a recent session and she turned to me with tears in her eyes and said " this is why we came here. You captured who we are as a family, and they look so beautiful. My husband has a very expensive Canon camera, and he doesn’t make us look like this.” I absolutely love the digital age and smart phones. But they don’t make someone a portrait photographer.
WL: What’s your specialty? Families? Grads? Pets? All the above?
HP: I’ve personally photographed over 5,000 families and I’m still fascinated and excited to create more. I think parents realize that they only really have 18 summers to spend with their kids in the home and that the opportunity to capture and preserve the memories is limited. Within a family sitting I also love to surround the grandchildren with just grandma and grandpa. Or do individual studies of the children and including the family dogs can make the portrait even more meaningful. So I would say families with all their uniqueness. And creating art for their home and the subject matter is someone they love.
WL: How does a photo session with you go? Do you have sample of your past work to show clients? Do you help pose people, and make them comfortable?
HP: The design process for portrait art begins when someone books with us. I meet with a client for a short consultation in the studio and I listen to what matters most to them. And why is the family gathering? Graduation, a new baby, an anniversary or a realization that they may never be together in the same way ever again. And yes, we discuss the walls in their homes and especially what they want to be wearing and some suggestions.
WL: What’s the turnaround time for a portrait? What is involved?
HP: Clients should allow about 8 weeks. Capture is important but is only half of what we do to prepare an image for printing. We create a curated presentation to show the different images for pose selection. Then we create workprints to analyze color and add details for artwork that will be incorporated.
WL: What does a portrait cost? Are there different printing options like canvas?
HP: Most of our clients begin spending at a $1,500 level. They can have a variety of portraits to hang and perhaps an album. Every selected pose includes a digital file for posting and printing small items like holiday cards.
WL: Do you do post-shoot touch ups to remove wrinkles, red eyes, spots on clothes, etc.?
HP: Yes, artwork beyond the “photoshop” look I think is what we specialize in. We help our subjects look their best and not look tired or older than they feel in a very natural interpretation. Now we have perfected a 5 lbs
slimmer process that is so natural.
WL: What’s the best thing to wear for a portrait? Are certain colors better than others?
HP: It’s nice when people choose colors that they use in their homes. Probably avoid having a matching look but using the same color family with different tones. The book I wrote goes into quite a bit of detail on what to wear and our website has information.
WL: How do you deal with people who wear glasses? Like in terms of glare and reflections?
HP: We remove glare and reflections.
WL: How long have you been doing this? Wasn’t this a family business started quite a while back?
HP: The studio is over a 100 years old now and it has been very sad to lose Mom two years ago. I was so fortunate to be in the business with my parents for over 25 years. We had so much fun together. I’m the 4th gen-
eration portrait photographer in my family. The Ball Studio was started in 1912 by our great-grandparents and is the oldest continually family-owned portrait studio in the country. We have been in the same location on SW 6th street for 56 years. It’s an honor to be one of the three oldest family businesses in Corvallis with Blackledge Furniture and Robnetts Hardware.
WL: Do you have plans for retirement yourself?
HP: I really don’t. I’m still fascinated and thrilled to bring an image up to its full potential for display. Knowing also that if someone is in front of my camera they are loved. Whether its a dog, a graduating senior, a child or a family, it’s love being represented and that’s timeless and priceless. And I have a wonderful team of artists and printers and photographers that help me make that happen over and over again.
Holly Peterson is the author of The Art of The Family Portrait, which is available to order from Amazon. She has photographed over 4,000 family groups, and is the owner of The Ball Studio Photography. The oldest continually family-owned portrait studio in the country; est.1912.
www.theballstudio.com
theballstudio@gmail.com
541-740-6074
BEST CHEF: Matt Bennett, Sybaris Bistro
Nursery / Garden Center
1. Garland, Corvallis
2. Shonnard's Nursery, Philomath
3. Home Grown Gardens, Corvallis
Interior Designer
1. Anna Bishop
2. Rylee Henderer
3. Powell Construction
Landscaper
1. Gonzalez Yard Care
2. Home Grown Gardens
3. PNW Maintenance, Salem
Builder
1. Henderer Design & Build
2. Powell Construction
3. G. Christianson Construction
Remodeling Contractor
1. Henderer Design & Build
2. Powell Construction
3. G. Christianson / Keith Semmel Construction, Albany
Handyman
1. Fix-n-Scape, Albany
Plumber
1. Judson's Plumbing,
2. Albin's Plumbing / Evenflo
3. Ron Knight Plumbing
Tile
1. Mid-Valley Tile
2. Benson’s Interiors
3. Mountain Top Tile & Stone
Mechanic
1. Dave’s Performance Hybrids
2. John’s Automotive, Corvallis
3. Crabtree Automotive, Albany
Accountant
1. Accuity Accounting
2. Kara Brausen
3. Rod Rice / Scott Meeker
Law Firm
1. Barnhisel, Barlow, Stephens & Costa
2. Reynolds Law Firm
3. Smith, Davison & Brasier, PC
Finanical Planner
1. Kim Hall, Clarity Wealth Dev.
2. Mica Habarad, Edward JoneS Corvallis
3. Jason Harris, Financial Freedom
Portrait Photographer
1. The Ball Studio
2. Troutman Photography
3. Kristi Crawford
Credit Union
1. Oregon State Cred. Union
2. Central Willamette Cred. Union
3. Red Canoe
Dog Groomer
1. It's a Ruff Life Keizer
2. Urban Tails, Albany
3. Paradise Grooming, Albany
Dog Trainer
1. Wonder Dogs, Corvallis
2. It's a Ruff Life, Salem
3. Red Dirt Dog TrainiNg, Corvallis
Veterinarian
1. Reid
2. Alpine
3. Albany Animal Hospital
Pet Boarding
1. Inavale Farm, Philomath
2. Joyful Noise Pet Boarding
3. Albany Pet Hotel
BEST DOG TRAINER: Wonder Dogs!
1. High Quality, Corvallis
2. Oregon Cannabis Co., Albany
3. Going Green, Albany
1. Two Towns
2. Cascadia
3. Ciderworks United
1. Sweet Red
2.
1. Margin Coffee,
Breakfast Spot
1. Brick and Mortar, Albany
2. The Dizzy Hen, Philomath
3. Wisecracks, Corvallis
Desserts
1. Sybaris Bistro
2. Sweet Red Bistro
3. Michele Ashley's Custom Cakes
Appetizers
1. Sybaris Bistro
2. Sweet Red Bistro
3. The Vault 244
Bakery
1. Bohdi Bakery
2. New Morning / Natural Sprinkles
3. Michelle Ashley's Custom Cakes
Outdoor Dining
1. Sweet Red Bistro
2. The Barn
3. Common Fields
Gluten Free Dining
1. Eats & Treats
2. Sybaris Bistro
3. Homegrown Oregon Foods
Food Trucks
1. The Barn
2. Grindz
3. Common Fields
Farmers Market
1. Corvallis Saturday
2. Albany Saturday
3. Salem Saturday
Cheese
1. Grazing Oregon Charcuterie
2. Sweet Red Bistro
3. Market of Choice/OSU Beaver Classic
Seafood
1. Local Ocean
2. The Depot
3. Pacifica Seafood
4.
Mexican Food
1. La Rockita
2. Taqueria Alonzo
3. Taco Vino
Italian Food
1. Gamberetti's Italian, Albany
2. Seeds Italian Bistro, Lebanon
3. Pastini, Corvallis
Pizza
1. American Dream
2. Southpaw's Pizza
3. Cirello's
4.
Indian Food
1. Evergreen
2. Nirvana
3. Royal Indian
Middle Eastern Food
1. Little Morocco
2. Khalo Naser
3. Al Jabal
Burger
1. Bo & Vine
2. Squirrels
3. Block 15
Asian
1. Ba's Vietnamese
2. House of Noodle
3. AB Chinese
Sushi
1. Sada
2. Aomatsu
3. Momiji
Family Dining
1. Elmer's Albany
2. Gamberetti's Albany
3. Novak's Albany
Romantic Dining
1. Sybaris Bistro
2. Sweet Red Bistro
3. del Alma
Lunch Spot
1. Grazing Oregon Charcuterie
2. Taco Vino
3. Homegrown Oregon Foods
Best Chef
1. Matt Bennett, Sybaris Bistro
2. Jesse Allaire, Sweet Red Bistro
3. Janice Myers, Grazing Oregon
Caterer
1. Sweet Red Bistro
2. Jaccopetti's Catering
3. Grazing Oregon Charcuterie
Women’s
Art Gallery
1. Gallery Calapooia, Albany
2. Corvallis Arts Center
3. River Gallery
Jeweler
1. Jordan Jewelers
2. Olufsen’s Designs
3. Sid Stevens
Shoe Store
1. Footwise, Corvallis
2. Shoe Hutch, Corvallis
3. Footwear Express, Albany
Designer Eyewear/Glasses
1. Albany Eyecare
2. Eyecare Associates, Corvallis
3. River View Family Eyecare
Pet Supplies
1. Sniffany’s Pet Boutique, Albany
2. Animal Crackers, Corvallis
3. Stayton Pet Supply / Salem Pet Supply
Local Hardware Store
1. Robnett’s Corvallis
2. Scio Hardware & Mercantile
3. Spaeth Lumber & Hardware
Coastal Getaway
1.
Weekend Getaway
Festival
Farm U-Pick
1. Greens Bridge Gardens,
2. Blueberry Meadows,
3. Bauman's Farm & Garden, Gervais
1. Goat Yoga-No Regrets Farm,
2. Iron Water Ranch, Albany
3. Royal Riverside Farm
1. Corvallis Knights Baseball
2. Beaver Football
3. OSU Women's Basketball
Casino
Golf
Camping Spot
1. River Rhythms
2. The Whiteside Theater
3. LaSells Stewart Center
Live Theater
1. The Majestic Theatre, Corvallis
2. Albany Civic Theater
3. The Hult
1. OSU Football
2. Corvallis Knights
3. OSU Women’s Basketball
BEST FARM/ANIMAL EXPERIENCE: GOAT YOGA- NO REGRETS FARM
PICTURED: MUPPET & DEMPSEY
Wedding Cakes
Wedding Photography
Wedding Venue
Florist
Wedding Officiant
Scio Hardware and Mercantile, the local hardware and general merchandise store for all your home projects. Remember, you’ve got to make hay while the sun shines!
Summer Flowers
Summer Colors
Summer Veggies
Scio Hardware and Mercantile 38737 N. Main St. Scio Oregon 97374
503.394.3824
Monday to Saturday, 7:30-5:30
facebook.com/sciohardware
Pharmacy
1. Rice’s Pharmacy, Corvallis
2. Elm Street Pharmacy, Albany
3. Pill Box, Lebanon
Doctor
1. Dr. Matthew Zollinger, MD
2. Dr. Mark Rampton, MD
3. Angie Bean, PA-C
Dentist
1. Dr. Mark Henke, DMD,
2. Dr. Lane S. Harris, DMD
3. Patrick V. Hagerty, DMD
Orthodontist
1. Dr. Anthony Paventy, DMD
2. Jay Schofield, DMD, MS
3. Dr. Jedidiah Gass, DDS, MSD
Chiropractor
1. Dr. Nicholas Brown, DC
2. Dr. Marcus Cool, DC
3. Dr. Joseph Shepro, DC
Optometrist
1. Dr. Carli Lancaster, OD
2. Dr. Elaine Hussey, OD
3. Dr. Jason Drobeck, OD
1. Precision Medical Aesthetics, Lebanon
2. Pure Beauty, Albany
3. Locks & Lashes, Albany
Massage
1. Embrace Kindness, Albany
2. Epic Day Spa, Corvallis
3. Lila at North Mane Salon, Scio
Acupuncture
1. Corvallis Acupuncture, Katy Willis, L.Ac.
2. Balance Point, Ondria Holub B.S., M.Ac.OM.,L.Ac./Brodie Welch L.Ac.
3. Samaritan, Seishiro Hokazono, L.Ac.
1. Albany's Canna-Kitchen & Research
2. Dr. Samantha Evans Rayack, ND
3. Angie Gallagher Functional Medicine
1. Oregon Permanent Makeup, Cheryl Lohman
2. Isabella Ware, J Bella Tattoo
3. Blink Tattoo & Esthetics
Medi Spa
1. Precision Medical Aesthetics, Lebanon,
2. Beautify Med Spa, Salem
3. Michelle's Skin Care, Corvallis
Day Spa
1. Epic Day Spa, Corvallis
2. Locks & Lashes, Albany
3. 14th Ave, Albany
Hair Salon
1. Honeycomb, Corvallis
2. Locks & Lashes, Albany
3. North Mane Salon, Scio
Nail Salon
1. Crystal Nails
2. Level 3 Salon + Spa
3. Locks & Lashes
1. Mindy's Hair Affair
2. Mel's Barbershop
3. So Fly Salon
BEST SKIN CARE AND BEST MEDI SPA: Precision Medical Aesthetics
Tanning Salon
1. JetStream Aqua Massage and Tan
2. Tan Republic
3. Locks & Lashes
Personal Training
1. The Shop, Corvallis
2. Ascent Fitness, Albany
3. Echo Taylor, Boss Studio
Health Club/ Fitness Center
1. Fitness over Fifty
2. The Shop / Fitness Experience
3. Timberhill Athletic Club
Yoga Studio
1. Love Yoga, Albany
2. Willamette Valley Power Yoga
3. Goat Yoga, No Regrets Farm & Sanctuary, Monroe
Martial Arts
1. Counterstrikes, Albany
2. Aurora Martial Arts, Corvallis
3. Precision Martial Arts, Corvallis
Tattoo Studio
1. Diehard, Albany
2. Studio Lumos, Corvallis
3. A New Leaf Tattoo Studio, Monmouth
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Asweet college town on the way to the beach, Newberg sits in the heart of Oregon’s highly regarded Willamette Valley wine region. From the wine barrel planters on the sidewalks to the dozen tasting rooms throughout the historic downtown, wine has been good to the city. George Fox University, founded by Quakers in 1881, has an enrollment
of 4,000 students who give Newberg a young vibe. Two flower festivals: Camellias in mid-April and Lavender in early July chehalemculturalcenter.org are popular with visitors as are Newberg’s outstanding restaurants. The Taste of Newberg website tastenewberg.com has highlights and itineraries for dining, wine tasting, and outdoor adventures.
Chehalem Ridge Bed & Breakfast
28700 NE Mountain Top Road • chehalemridge.com
The expansive views are to-die-for from this gorgeous home. The owner, Kristin Fintel, is a classically-trained chef so the breakfasts, Cheese Souffle for example, are top notch. She bakes fresh scones with homemade jams and jellies, and homemade hazelnut granola, served on the deck (propane heaters on when its chilly). Much of the produce and herbs come from her garden. Kristen has extensive knowledge of the area and is great at recommending ‘not to be missed’ places.
The Dreamgiver’s Inn
7150 NE Earlwood Road • dreamgiversinn.com
Kevin and Mary, owners of the inn do a wonderful job making guests feel comfortable. Mary is also an accomplished baker and offers guests delicious breakfasts and baked goods—think hazelnut biscotti and fresh sourdough bread! The inn is roomy and is a great choice for group rentals. They also have a huge garden and highlight their own produce in their meals. The location is in the heart of Oregon’s wine country. Set in the middle of acres of wine grapes, Dreamgiver’s Inn is as peaceful as it gets! Consider them your home base to explore Oregon’s Willamette Valley tasting rooms.
Yamhill Flats
104 N Howard Street • yamhillflats.com
Conveniently located in downtown Newberg, Yamhill Flats is a great alternative to a hotel with five roomy, modern apartments that rent by the night. Its sister property, Newberg Wine Country Suites, (lifestylepropertiesoregon.com/vacationhome-community.asp?CommunityID=6009#) has four apartments. Both are walking distance to tasting rooms, shops, and restaurants, and with kitchens, they make being away from home so comfortable you may want to stay longer! Ask about their pet-friendly options.
27895 NE Bell Road (by appointment) • bellsupwinery.com
One of the stops on Black Tie Tours might be Bell’s Up, a micro-boutique winery with second-to-none Valley views. The husband-and-wife team do everything on their 10-acre vineyard to produce music-themed vintages available for sale on site.
With 30 years and over 11,000 flights of experience, Vista Balloon Adventures has a fleet of six balloons and offers unforgettable, early morning departures from Newberg into the air above the Willamette Valley. They do group and private excursions with 4-10 passengers per trip beginning with watching the 100-foot balloons being inflated…a spectacle in itself. There is a touch down on the Willamette River on the way to landing near St. Paul, and after packing up, a van ride back to Newberg. Check it off your bucket list!
blacktietours.com
114 S Center Street • hooverminthorn.org
Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States, lived in this 1881-built home with his aunt and uncle, the Minthorns from age 11 to 14, while he attended the Friends Pacific Academy (now George Fox University). The home was dedicated as a museum in 1955 and Hoover himself was present for the dedication. He remains the only President to have lived in Oregon. The house, on the National Register of Historic Places, is open to the public and is an example of late-19th Century construction and furnishings.
Black Tie Tours is a concierge tour operation. Stefan Czarnecki, the owner, arranges tasting room and winery tours or itineraries to the Oregon coast, Evergreen Aviation Museum, Silver Falls State Park, or wherever your party wants to go. Stefan’s specialty besides all things Yamhill County, is wild mushroom hunting, and he leads truffle and mushroom excursions in season. His father Jack is the author of four cookbooks featuring wild mushroom recipes, so this is a unique opportunity to tour with an expert.
Echo's Antiques & Vintage
Echo’s Antiques and Vintage
612 E First Street
Squeezed into a narrow shop, Echo’s is floor-to-ceiling cool stuff! They specialize in true antiques, not reproductions. In addition to the usual collectibles and old books, they have an inventory of occasional furniture, desks, and smaller pieces.
Chapters Books & Coffee
701 E First Street
• chaptersbooksandcoffee.com
Located in Newberg’s first commercial building (1892), Chapters has been a favorite with locals and college students for 20 years. Besides being an independent bookstore, they serve coffee drinks and baked goods. The tables amongst the bookcases are a perfect place to sit, sip, and read. As a bonus, a small-batch ice cream stand, Cream, is also on-site. creamnorthwest.com
Pulp & Circumstance
117 S College Street • pulp-circumstance.com
In room after room of fun and unique must-haves Pulp & Circumstance sells stationery, gifts, jewelry, and toys. They are celebrating 10 years in a 100+ year-old, historic house. Engage with the enthusiastic staff, give yourself plenty of time to look around, and don’t miss the Candy Room!
Little Bird Boutique
606 E First Street thelittlebirdboutique.com
This welcoming lifestyle store stocks wearable women’s apparel that is comfortable and appropriate for living every day in the PNW. It’s fashion with a regional flare! The local owner also maintains a fabulous website and on-line shop offering bath and body products, hats to handbags, shoes, and home gifts.
Newbergundian Bistro
203 Villa Road • newbergundian.com
This local favorite just celebrated five years on this corner…where fresh, locally sourced ingredients made with French cuisine techniques meet Pacific Northwest fare. The owners, husband and wife, also offer catering and a ‘grab and go’ case for dining at home. Their pastries and desserts are made in-house daily with the chocolate croissants starring as their best sellers. The restaurant has a full bar and wine selections (many from the area) available by the bottle or the glass, and their patio seating is popular for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Storrs Smokehouse
310 E First Street • storrssmokehouse.com
Storrs Smokehouse has been serving barbeque in downtown Newberg for nine years. All of their sides are scratch-made…even the Texas Toast is baked in-house. They offer three barbeque sauces: Carolina (vinegar-based), Spicy Hot, and Sweet with a Pinot base. The Brisket Plate was excellent.
Shop & Bistro
602 E First Street; Suite A goodcompanycheese.com
508 E First Street, Suite AB • newbergmexicanfood.com
Family-owned and operated for 15 years (five in this location) Taqueria El Burrito makes their own authentic sauces and tortillas. Burritos are an obvious choice, but tacos and tortas are also popular favorites.
One of only a handful of independent cheese shops in Oregon, Good Company stocks dozens of artisanal cheeses from far and near, and everything else you need for a one-of-a-kind picnic basket…build it yourself or they will curate one for you. Pair your goodies with wine, or a sparkling beverage from their selections. They do charcuterie boards too. Order noshes from their perfect-forsharing menu to enjoy in their cozy seating area.
Wake up to a delicious homemade breakfast, fresh air, stunning views and some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. Then explore the valley, we’re conveniently located near some of the finest vineyards and tasting rooms in the world. At the end of the day, return to the Dreamgiver’s Inn for a relaxing evening and a restful night’s sleep. We can’t wait to welcome you and make your stay with us unforgettable!
Sprinkles of Joy Bakery
621 E First Street • sprinklesofjoy.net
Sprinkles of Joy started with custom cakes in 2017 and expanded to this downtown shop in late 2020. In this mother-daughter operation, everything is made on-site: coffee cake, scones, cookies (both classics and gourmet options), cinnamon rolls, and cupcakes. They still take custom orders and many of the selections are gluten-free. Their bakery case is a feast in itself!
Miss
200 US Highway 99-W; Building B • misshannahspopcorn.com
Miss Hannah’s runs production and retail from this Newberg location, shipping their unique popcorns nationwide. The gift shop includes their most popular flavor, Sea Salt Caramel with chocolate drizzle, but also on-hand are Spicy Pickle, Coconut Cream, Orange Dreamsicle, and many others. They carry branded ‘merch’…hats and shirts…and have a retail kiosk at Bridgeport Village.
Bubble Bear
501 E First Street • bubblebearoregon.com
Bubble Bear was opened in Spring 2023 on First Street by two young sisters. They serve a full menu of sweet and savory waffles all day…a delicious accompaniment to a smoothie or one of their boba teas. We tried the Brown Sugar Coffee Milk Tea…heck yeah!
Oregon State University’s former baseball coach, Pat Casey hails from Newberg. He graduated from Newberg High School and during college at University of Portland was drafted to play professional baseball. Pat returned to Newberg to attend and coach at George Fox University before being hired at OSU in 1995. As head coach, Pat took six squads to the College World Series, returning to Corvallis with three championships (in 2006, 2007, and 2018). Coach Casey retired after 24 seasons in 2018.
TIRED OF LEAVING YOUR BELOVED PUP AT HOME WHEN YOU'RE OUT ENJOYING A DELIGHTFUL MEAL, TASTING WINE OR CRAFT BREWS?
Training your dog to behave at restaurant patios is more than just table manners; it cultivates fun, shared experiences that build a stronger bond with your dog. Imagine the joy of watching your dog confidently navigate social settings with grace, mingling with other patrons and canines.
Unpredictable dog behavior can significantly impact your ability to relax and enjoy your outing. Setting your dog up for success makes your communication more effective and helps you manage challenging situations that may arise, ensuring you can savor your dining experience. This empathetic teamwork gives your dog the opportunity to thrive in our vibrant dining culture without any anxiety or unruly behavior.
Here are some ideas to set your dog up for success on outings:
Bring a cozy mat for your dog to settle on. The smell from home is reassuring in a new place and it provides a visual signal that it’s time to relax. You wouldn’t find it comfortable to lay on the concrete sipping beer for two hours, why would you ask your dog to?
Make sure your dog is well exercised beforehand, but not too tired. If your dog really needs some rest, a busy patio restaurant is not the place for it. It’s normal to be cranky when someone interrupts our nap time.
Teach your dog specific cues to clarify when they should and should not visit a passerby, human or canine. Then lavishly reward your dog with treats for responding appropriately. Harsh scoldings are unclear, confusing and likely to decrease your dog’s sociability over time, so leash corrections, “no” and “leave it” are unproductive communication strategies. This is a social outing, isn’t it?
Wonder Dogs’ Drink with Your Dog® class meets at real breweries and focuses on developing essential patio manners, helping your dog handle various distractions to ensure a peaceful and en-joyable atmosphere for all. Discover the importance and excitement of training your canine com-panion to behave impeccably at restaurant patios and breweries!
We welcome you to visit our 12,000 sq ft training facility to learn more about our comprehensive training programs.
Jenn Michaelis, BA, CPDT-KA, RFE-CI (she/her) Owner, Trainer, Behavior Specialist SassyT Canine Academy dba Wonder Dogs
Helping People & Dogs Live More Harmoniously www.wonderdogstraining.com
In a world filled with hustle and bustle, finding moments of tranquility becomes increasingly important for our overall well-being. Yoga, an ancient practice originating from India, offers a powerful means to achieve this elusive state of calm amidst the chaos. Over the years, yoga has gained immense popularity as a holistic approach to health and wellness. Beyond its physical postures and flexibility, yoga encompasses a multitude of benefits for the body, mind, and spirit. Let's delve into the transformative power of yoga and explore how it can enhance your life.
Physical Well-being:
At its core, yoga is a practice that unifies breath with movement, engaging the body in a harmonious flow. Regular yoga practice offers a myriad of physical benefits, including:
a) Increased Flexibility: Yoga asanas (poses) gently stretch and strengthen muscles, improving flexibility and joint mobility. With time, the body becomes more supple, enhancing overall physical performance.
b) Enhanced Strength and Balance: Many yoga postures require the engagement of core muscles, leading to improved strength and stability. Strengthening the body helps prevent injuries and promotes better posture.
c) Improved Cardiovascular Health: Dynamic styles of yoga, such as Vinyasa or Power Yoga, offer a cardiovascular workout that elevates heart rate, improves circulation, and boosts overall cardiovascular health.
d) Pain Relief and Rehabilitation: Yoga can alleviate chronic pain conditions, such as back pain, by enhancing body awareness, strengthening supportive muscles, and promoting healthy alignment.
Beyond its physical benefits, yoga is renowned for its positive impact on mental and emotional well-being. Through focused breathing, meditation, and mindfulness, yoga cultivates a sense of inner peace and clarity. Here's how yoga can benefit your mental and emotional health:
a) Stress Reduction: Yoga provides a sanctuary for the mind, allowing individuals to detach from the pressures of daily life. By practicing mindfulness and deep breathing, yoga helps reduce stress levels and promotes relaxation.
b) Improved Concentration: Regular yoga practice enhances mental focus and concentration. It trains the mind to stay present, improving productivity, and enhancing cognitive abilities.
c) Emotional Balance: Yoga encourages self-reflection and emotional awareness. By connecting mind and body, individuals can develop resilience, self-compassion, and emotional balance, leading to a greater sense of well-being.
d) Anxiety and Depression Management: Numerous studies have shown that yoga can be an effective complementary therapy for managing anxiety and depression. The combination of movement, breathwork, and meditation can alleviate symptoms, boost mood, and improve overall mental health.
Yoga is not merely a physical practice; it is a path of self-discovery and spiritual growth. By integrating mindfulness, introspection, and philosophical teachings, yoga invites individuals to embark on a profound journey of self-awareness and inner transformation
a) Connection with the Self: Through regular yoga practice, individuals develop a deeper connection with their inner selves. Yoga encourages self-acceptance, self-love, and the exploration of one's true essence.
b) Expanded Consciousness: The meditative aspects of yoga open doors to heightened states of awareness and expanded consciousness. This allows individuals to transcend everyday limitations and tap into their innate potential.
c) Cultivation of Compassion and Gratitude: Yoga fosters a sense of compassion for oneself and others. By embracing kindness and gratitude, practitioners develop a more harmonious relationship with the world around them.
d) Integration of Mind, Body, and Spirit: Yoga unifies mind, body, and spirit, creat-
ing a holistic approach to wellness. This integration leads to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Yoga is a profound practice that offers countless benefits for our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Its transformative power lies in its ability to cultivate harmony and balance within us and the world around us. By embracing yoga, we can enhance our flexibility, find mental clarity, nurture emotional well-being, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. So, unroll your mat, breathe deeply, and embark on a transformative path towards a more serene and vibrant life. Namaste!
Curious about yoga? Love Yoga (our Best of the Valley winner) is offering a summer special! Contact them this summer and get a free week of instruction! This offer ends August 31st so don’t wait too long!
Contact Suzanne at: LoveYogaStudios.com
Or give her a call at 541-971-1326
Love Yoga
630 NW Hicory St. Albany, OR 97321
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE BEAUTY OF NATURE AND CAPTURE ITS ESSENCE ON CANVAS WITH PLEIN AIR PAINTING.
Plein air, which means "open air" in French, is a style of painting where artists venture outdoors to paint scenes directly from life. Whether you're an experienced artist or a beginner with a desire to explore the world of outdoor painting, this article will guide you through the essentials of starting your plein air painting journey. So grab your brushes, set up your easel, and let the natural world ignite your creativity!
Selecting Your Painting Equipment: To start plein air painting, you'll need some basic equipment:
Portable easel or tripod, Sturdy and lightweight plein air painting box, a selection of paintbrushes suitable for outdoor use, high-quality paints in a portable palette, canvas or painting panels, palette knives, portable stool or chair, sunscreen, hat, insect repellent, and other essentials for comfort.
Choosing Your Painting Location: Look for inspiring landscapes, charming cityscapes, or captivating natural scenes to serve as your painting subjects. Consider factors such as lighting conditions, interesting compositions, and accessibility. Local parks, beaches, gardens, and city streets can offer a wealth of picturesque scenes. Start with familiar locations and gradually explore new surroundings to
expand your repertoire.
Capturing the Essence: When painting outdoors, it's crucial to observe and capture the essence of the scene quickly, as lighting conditions change rapidly. Focus on capturing the mood, colors, and energy of the moment. Experiment with different brushwork techniques to create texture and movement in your paintings. Remember, plein air painting is about capturing the spirit of the place and expressing your unique artistic interpretation.
Embracing the Elements: Plein air painting brings you face-to-face with the elements of nature. Be prepared for weather conditions such as wind, heat, or sudden rain. Consider bringing an umbrella or shade to protect your canvas and palette. Embrace the challenges and learn to work with the changing light and weather as they can add a dynamic and authentic touch to your artwork.
Practice Observation and Speed: Plein air painting requires quick observation and decision-making skills. Train your eye to capture the essence of a scene by sketching thumbnail compositions before diving into a full-scale painting. Focus on simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and values. Embrace the spontaneity of plein air painting and allow yourself to work swiftly, with confident brushstrokes.
Learn from Experience: As with any art form, practice is key. Commit to regular plein air painting sessions to improve your skills and gain confidence. Learn from your experiences, embrace mistakes as learning opportunities, and keep exploring new techniques and subjects. Join local plein air painting groups or workshops to connect with fellow artists, share experiences, and learn from each other.
Embrace the Pleasure of Plein Air Painting: Plein air painting is not just about creating art; it's a chance to connect with nature, embrace the outdoors, and experience a sense of freedom and adventure. Enjoy the process of painting en plein air, relish the sounds, smells, and sights of your surroundings, and allow your artwork to be a reflection of the joy and inspiration you find in the world around you.
Venturing into the world of plein air painting opens up a world of artistic possibilities and a deeper connection with the natural environment. By selecting the right equipment, finding inspiring locations, capturing the essence of the scene, and embracing the elements, you'll embark on a creative journey that combines your artistic expression with the wonders of the great outdoors. To find like minded enthusiasts check with one of our local galleries like the River Gallery in Independence, the Art in the Valley gallery in Corvallis or the Corvallis Arts Center.
THURSDAY JULY 20 | COMMON FIELDS CONCERTS
The festival will kick off with a Thursday evening concert at Common Fields featuring Fionnghal from 5:30-7pm and The Nettles from 7:30-9pm. No cover charge. Thanks to Common Fields for donating 10% of proceeds from the day to the festival.
FRIDAY JULY 21 | GOTHARD SISTERS
Friday July 21 brings The Gothard Sisters to the First United Methodist church at 7pm for a fundraising concert. Ticket information at corvallisfolklore.org
SATURDAY JULY 22 |
BAGPIPERS PARADE, PERFORMANCES, WORKSHOPS, ACTIVITES FOR ALL
Saturday starts at 9:30am with a bagpiper’s parade. Then we’ll have a bevy of local and regional Celtic performers and artists in Central Park, the Corvallis Library and The Corvallis Arts Center. Everything from harps and fiddles to bagpipes, flutes, whistles, and singing will be represented. Expect musical performances and workshops, dancing, arts and crafts, children's activities, whiskey tasting and a relaxed pace Celtic session where new players are very welcome.
SATURDAY JULY 22 | HARP PERFORMANCE & WORKSHOP
The Corvallis Arts Center will transform into a Harp Space from noon-5pm on Saturday. A hands on harp workshop and a performance by Lisa Lynne and Aryeh Frankfurter are part of the program there.
SATURDAY JULY 22 | BIDDY ON THE BENCH
A high energy Celtic session at Squirrels Tavern in downtown Corvallis caps off Saturday’s festivities. This session will run from 9pm to midnight and will be anchored by Portland band Biddy on the Bench. All those 21 and over are welcome to this session.
SUNDAY JULY 22 | PERFORMANCES
Sunday offers more free musical performances starting at 10am-noon at Old World Deli. There will also be two Celtic sessions on Sunday, one at Common Fields from 11am-2pm and another at Old World Deli from 2-4pm. The Brass Monkey will have music from 4-6pm and a whiskey tasting (fee: $25) at 4pm.
Biddy on the Bench Gothard Sisters Hands on Harp WorkshopComing from out of town? Coupons for discounted room rates at Corvallis hotels will be available. Festival button purchasers enjoy a 10% discount at many of our festival sponsors. Visit us on Facebook (Corvallis Celtic Festival), or the Corvallis Folklore Society website corvallisfolklore.org for updates and a schedule.
Sponsors and volunteers are always welcome. We're also looking for vendors (food, Celtic arts and crafts etc).
Contact bethbrown15@gmail.com for information on these opportunities or with any other festival questions.
Where there were once hundreds of ferries crossing the Willamette River, dating back to Boones Ferry in 1847 at the site of present-day Wilsonville, now there are but three. While it may be quicker to take a bridge, a ferry ride can help shift life’s gears down a notch and allow the traveler a few minutes of reflection and restoration.
In Marion County, two ferries operate year-round. The Wheatland Ferry, opened in 1950, connects Marion and Yamhill Counties north of Salem. The ferry was closed last summer for three months while it completed its 5-year U.S. Coast Guard inspection and maintenance schedule. The ferry travels 580 feet across the Willamette attached to a cable system. The current ferry, Daniel Matheny V (named for the original, 1850’s operator)
has a nine-car capacity. The Buena Vista Ferry is located south of Salem and Independence and runs between Marion and Polk Counties. Its river crossing is 720 feet wide and has a six-car capacity. It also runs on cables.
Both ferries take only cash, personal check, or a Ferry Toll card. Our car met the under 22 foot rate of $3.00 but pedestrians are free and bikes are $1.00. Check the Marion County website for the operating status, hours, and complete fee schedule. https://www.co.marion.or.us/PW/ferries
In Clackamas County, the Canby Ferry originally opened in 1914 and connects the communities of Canby and Stafford, guided by cables for 792 feet (.15 miles). The vessel, the M.J. Lee II, is named for Millard Jerome Lee, the first child born
in Canby in 1872. The Clackamas County website has all of the current information but our car’s crossing fee was $5.00. https://www.clackamas.us/roads/ferry. html
On the Lower Columbia River there is a single, remaining ferry in operation: the Wahkiakum County Ferry. It crosses between Westport, Oregon and Cathlamet, Washington once per hour each way, 365 days per year. It takes under 15 minutes to make the 1.4 mile crossing although on our trip we had to pause for a bulk container ship passing through the Columbia Channel. The fee for our car was $6.00 and the ferry crew was kind enough to point out a bald eagle’s nest along the riverbank that held two juvenile eagles… no extra charge!
www.co.wahkiakum.wa.us/252/Ferry
IN THE PICTURESQUE TOWN OF HERMISTON, OREGON, NESTLED IN THE HEART OF THE COLUMBIA BASIN, LIES A HIDDEN TREASURE THAT DELIGHTS TASTE BUDS FAR AND WIDE: HERMISTON MELONS.
Known for their unparalleled sweetness, exceptional flavor, and juicy goodness, these melons have become a beloved summertime treat for locals and a sought-after delicacy for melon enthusiasts across the country. Join us as we explore the fascinating story behind Hermiston melons and uncover what makes them truly special.
The Rich Heritage: Hermiston melons owe their legacy to the region's
unique climate and fertile soil. Located in the northeastern part of Oregon, Hermiston benefits from warm summers, cool nights, and abundant sunshine. These ideal growing conditions, coupled with the nutrient-rich volcanic soil of the Columbia Basin, provide the perfect environment for cultivating exceptional melons.
A Melon for Every Palate: Hermiston boasts a diverse range of melon varieties, each with its own distinct qualities and flavors. The most famous among them is the Hermiston watermelon, renowned for its vibrant crimson flesh, crisp texture, and mouthwatering sweetness. Bite into a slice, and you'll be treated to an explosion of refreshing juiciness that
will instantly quench your thirst on a hot summer day.
Additionally, Hermiston is also celebrated for its cantaloupes, honeydews, and specialty melons like the Crenshaw and Canary melons. Whether you prefer the intoxicating aroma of a ripe cantaloupe or the delicate, honey-like sweetness of a perfectly ripened honeydew, Hermiston melons offer a delightful assortment to suit every palate.
Farm-to-Table Excellence: One of the most remarkable aspects of Hermiston melons is the strong connection between local farmers and the community. The region's melon growers take immense pride in their
craft and follow traditional farming methods passed down through generations. Carefully nurturing their melon crops, farmers in Hermiston ensure that each fruit reaches its full potential, allowing nature's flavors to shine through.
Many local farms in Hermiston offer "U-pick" experiences, allowing visitors to hand-pick their melons straight from the fields. This unique farmto-table experience not only fosters a sense of appreciation for the hard work involved in melon production but also guarantees the freshest and most flavorful melons for consumers.
The Pride of Oregon: Hermiston melons have become synonymous
with Oregon's agricultural prowess. Every summer, the region's melon harvest draws visitors from near and far, all eager to taste the exquisite flavors of these delectable fruits. The annual Hermiston Watermelon Festival, held in August, serves as a grand celebration of the local melon harvest, featuring exciting events, contests, and of course, endless melon tastings.
Beyond Borders: While Hermiston melons are cherished by Oregonians, their fame has transcended state lines. These exceptional melons have gained recognition and popularity nationwide, finding their way onto the tables of discerning consumers and the shelves of gourmet grocers
across the country. Their reputation for quality, flavor, and sweetness has made Hermiston melons a coveted choice for melon enthusiasts throughout the United States.
Hermiston melons from Oregon embody the very essence of summer sweetness. Grown with care in the fertile lands of Hermiston, these melons are a testament to the region's agricultural excellence and the dedication of local farmers. From the first bite, you'll be captivated by their luscious flavors and refreshing juiciness, creating a sensory experience that is truly unforgettable. So, next time you find yourself in the vicinity during melon season, be sure to indulge with a Hermiston melon.
Ingredients:
4 cups of diced watermelon
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon, chopped mint leaves, and crumbled feta cheese. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the watermelon mixture and gently toss to combine. Serve chilled.
Ingredients:
2 cups diced watermelon
1 cup frozen strawberries
1 frozen banana
1 cup coconut water
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy. If desired, add ice cubes for a frostier texture. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Ingredients:
4 cups diced seedless watermelon
1 cucumber, peeled and diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a blender, combine the watermelon, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve cold.
Ingredients:
2 cups cubed watermelon
1 cup cubed feta cheese
Fresh basil leaves
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Instructions:
Thread a cube of watermelon, a cube of feta cheese, and a fresh basil leaf onto a toothpick or skewer. Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Arrange the skewers on a platter and drizzle
with balsamic glaze. Serve as a refreshing appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Place the watermelon cubes in a blender and blend until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids or seeds. In a saucepan, combine the watermelon puree, sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool. Pour the cooled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. Transfer the sorbet to a container and freeze for a few hours until firm. Serve in bowls or cones, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Adopt this dog
About Dante:
Age: Three and a half
Weight: 65 lbs (or so)
Gender: male (neutered)
Breed: "Pitty" Mix
More about me:
Likes: Walks (very exciting), cookies, meeting people.
I'm really looking forward to being adopted! I'm a big, friendly boy who is good at sitting and I'm housebroken. I'm trying to learn to not pull so much on a leash, but it's just so exciting to go on walks and see all kinds of new stuff! I get along with everyone I meet. I'll be your friend for ever and ever!
Dislikes: Cats, being alone, spinach.
Adopt me by calling Heartland Humane Society at 541-757-9000 I can't wait to meet you!
La Rockita’s food is excellent, and the entire staff is very welcoming and friendly, every time we visit. Yes, we are regulars.
They don’t do anything much different than most Mexican restaurants; they just do it right. The food, all of it, is always super fresh. The salsas are fresh and delicious, not mind-numbingly hot, but with a kick and plenty of delicious south of the border flavor. Even the most basic Mexican restaurant item, chips and salsa, is better at La Rockita. The chips are fresh every time you order them, and they come with a great assortment of salsas, and even refried beans to dip!
In our Chicken Flauta, the chicken was all white meat and super fresh, like always.
And the veggie tostada was also delicious, with just the right combination of beans, cheese, lettuce salsa and sour cream. Both highly recommended.
If you’re hungry, they absolutely will fill you up, no matter how hungry you are! And they will provide a to-go box in case your eyes turn out to be bigger than your stomach – a frequent situation at La Rockita.
Or, if you’re watching your waist, there are lighter options, the aforementioned veggie tostada being one of them. No matter what you order, everything feels like a healthy choice. Fresh food, prepared very well. That’s what’s on the menu at La Rockita. Muy delicioso!
Buy one, or give it a try yourself! Here's a classic recipe for shaved ice, a refreshing and delicious treat perfect for hot summer days:
Ingredients:
2 cups ice cubes
1/4 cup flavored syrup (choose from your favorite flavors like strawberry, blueberry, mango, lemon, etc.)
Sweetened condensed milk (optional, for a creamy topping) Assorted toppings (optional): fresh fruit, gummy bears, boba pearls, mochi, etc.
Instructions:
Start by crushing the ice cubes. You can use a blender, food processor, or an ice shaver to achieve a fine snow-like texture. Be sure to work quickly, as shaved ice melts fast!
Once the ice is shaved, pack it into serving dishes or paper cups. Drizzle a flavored syrup of your choice over the shaved ice. Start with a little and add more to taste. You can create a rainbow effect by using multiple syrup flavors.
If you want to add a creamy touch, pour some sweetened condensed milk over the top of the shaved ice. This is a common addition in some regions.
Optionally, decorate your shaved ice with assorted toppings like fresh fruit slices, gummy bears, boba pearls, or mochi for added texture and flavor.
FYI: "shave ice" - Hawaiian "shaved ice" - elsewhere
Diamond Clear is a 190 proof organic alcohol. Ask for Diamond Clear at your local liquor store, or pick some up at the Fireside tasting room in Eugene.
Make your own herbal tinctures! Such as Turmeric, Echinacea, Chamomile, White Pine, Basil or even Cannabis. The pure, organic alcohol in Diamond Clear extracts the beneficial compounds from the herbs of your choice. Just soak for a month and you’re done! Recipes abound online.
1 oz Lime Liqueur
1 oz White Rum
2 tbsp of organic sugar
Club soda
Half a lime
Fresh mint leaves
Pour Lime Liqueur, White Rum, and juice of half a lime, and sugar into a shaker. Crush the mint leaves and put them in the shaker.
Shake with ice until you feel the flavors have all been mixed thoroughly. If you have a muddler then muddle all in the shaker then shake with ice. A muddler is more effective at extracting the flavors.
Strain into a highball glass over ice, top with club soda, garnish with lime and mint.
Diamond Clear can also be used for craft projects like making your own perfume. It’s quite easy to do, and you can create your own unique, signature scents! And of course, you can use Diamond Clear to formulate your own liquers and cocktails!
Fireside Distillers
4065 W. 11th Suite 47
In Eugene, Oregon 541-255-7643
Local | Veteran Owned
firesidedistillers.com
French
Savory
Berry Yogurt Parfait: Cool and Creamy Delight
Ingredients:
Greek yogurt
Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
All
Granola
Honey (optional)
Instructions:
In a glass or bowl, layer Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and granola. Repeat the layers until you reach your desired amount. Drizzle honey on top if desired. This delightful and nutritious parfait can be enjoyed as a refreshing breakfast or a light dessert.
COOKIN' WITH THE CO-OP
4 cups fresh blueberries
3/4 – 1 cup sugar
1 cup water
2 Tbsp lemon juice
1/8 tsp salt
Instructions:
Heat sugar, water and salt until sugar is dissolved. Add lemon juice and stir. Puree’ mixture with blueberries in blender or food processor, until smooth. Freeze overnight in a 9×13 glass casserole dish. Thaw slightly, break into large pieces and put a few pieces at a time into a food processor. Pulse processor until sorbet reaches your desired consistency. Scoop out and serve!
del Alma
An exciting menu of new Latin fusion cuisine. Fabulous riverfront bar, special events, extensive wine list. A truly memorable dining experience.
Menus and more at: delalmarestaurant.com
Open for dinner
Mon - Thurs 5:00 -- 9:30 Fri & Sat 5:00 - 10:00
136 SW Washington Ave Suite 102, Corvallis 541-753-2222
Ingredients:
Cherry tomatoes
Fresh mozzarella balls
Fresh basil leaves
Balsamic glaze
Olive oil
Not just Chinese food!
Our Asian fusion menu will delight you. You’ll love our chic new restaruant, and our delicious menu items presented with style. Many reviewers have called ours “the best asian food in Corvallis,” come find out why.
www.queenschopstick.com
11:00 am 10:00 pm Sun-Wed
11:00 am 11:00 pm Thurs-Sat
2329 Kings Blvd Corvallis
541-758-9166
Salt and pepper
Instructions: Thread a cherry tomato, a mozzarella ball, and a basil leaf onto a toothpick or skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and a touch of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. These skewers make a perfect appetizer or light snack.
Life is busy and eating healthy can be challenging. Homegrown Oregon Foods is an oasis in a sea of fast food. Our food is made with healthy, fresh ingredients at an affordable price, and always 100% gluten free.
Dine in, Pick up, or Delivery
See the website for details.
212 1st. Ave. in Albany 541-971-7174
www.homegrownoregonfoods.com
Ingredients:
Cubed watermelon
Crumbled feta cheese
Fresh mint leaves, chopped
Balsamic glaze
Lime juice
Salt and pepper
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients. This sweet and savory salad is a delightful accompaniment to any summer meal.
Vibrant Mediterranean Flavors
Ingredients:
Cooked pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fusilli)
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Cucumber, diced
Red onion, thinly sliced
Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
Feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh parsley, chopped
Olive oil
Red wine vinegar
Dried oregano
Salt and pepper
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh parsley. In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss well to coat. Serve chilled and transport yourself to the Mediterranean with every bite.
A local landmark for over 30 years. Our bakers and chefs are at work around-the-clock preparing all your favorite dishes and baked goods using only the finest ingredients. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, or anything in between. Now offering catering too.
Mon-Sat 7:00 - 9:00
Sunday 8:00 - 8:00
219 SW 2nd St. Downtown Corvallis NewMorningBakery.com 541-754-0181
Albany’s new sushi sensation. Kaiyo Sushi is the place for a quick lunch meeting, date night, or family night out.
Watch as expertly prepared sushi floats past your seat on our conveyor, and pick your favorites.
Sashimi, sushi, vegetarian and vegan options -- even dessert.
A taste of Japan, in Albany. Come by today and have some sushi!
Open 11 am to 10 pm 2826 Santiam Hwy SE, Albany, OR 97322
(Next to Elmer’s)
(541) 497-2622
Opened in 1984 by Joseph and Matilda Novak, Novak’s is Oregon’s only Hungarian restaurant!
Today, locally sourced ingredients, sustainable practices, and the same love from the “old country” goes into every dish.
CURRENT HOURS:
Thursday & Friday 11:30 -- 4:00
Buffet from 5:00 to close.
208 2nd St. SW in Albany 541-967-9488
www.novakshungarian.com
GARDENS COME IN ALL SHAPES AND SIZES. FOR THOSE WHO DON’T HAVE A FLOURISHING BACKYARD WITH ACRES OF GREENERY, YOU HAVE TO MAKE DO WITH THE SPACE YOU HAVE TO SATISFY YOUR INNER GREEN THUMB.
Creating a balcony garden can bring life to your terrace and give you some healthy options to add to your cooking. By plotting out the space, researching which plants will thrive on your balcony, and gathering the right materials, you’ll set yourself up for gardening success.
HOW TO CREATE A BALCONY GARDEN
First, consider your space. The amount of sunlight your balcony gets will determine what you’re able to grow and how quickly your garden will grow. Crops like tomatoes and strawberries need lots of sun to grow up healthy, while others like peas and herbs can still thrive in less sunlight. If your balcony is sunlight-deprived, you may need to invest in a grow light to give your plants the light they need.
HOW TO PLANT AN HERB GARDEN
What are your goals for your balcony garden? Are you looking to build out your collection of natural herbs or do you want to turn your terrace into your own personal exotic oasis? Whether
your motives are culinary or aesthetic, planning out your garden will help you maximize space. Hanging and stack planters allow you to create a vertical garden, which helps save space. Climbing plants like honeysuckle, ivy, ferns, and different varieties of vines are perfectly suited for this kind of garden design. Before hanging any planting pots, hooks, trellises, shelves, or any kind of gardening equipment, check your governing Homeowners Association (HOA) policies to make sure your plans are within the rules.
With any garden, your main concern is keeping your plants healthy. This means giving them plenty of water, treating your soil with care, and keeping up with seasonal demands depending on your local climate. If you’re looking to save money on your balcony gardening project, don’t focus your frugal efforts on the soil. Soil is the lifeblood of your garden, so it’s important to give it a fresh, nutrient-rich mixture. Once you’ve selected your plants, research their needs to see which potting mix you need to pick up at your local gardening or hardware store. Depending on the chemical makeup of the potting soil, you may not need to fertilize your plants right away.
With a balcony garden, it’s also important to keep your neighbors happy. Put saucers underneath your pots to prevent excess water from dripping onto the neighbors beneath you. This will also cut down on wasted water, one of the main principles of sustainable gardening. Self-watering pots are helpful, especially if you’re not always around to water your plants. They prevent overwatering by metering the amount of water your plants receive, only feeding them when necessary.
You also need to consider how much weight you’re adding to your balcony. Yes, terra cotta pots have that quintessential Tuscan gardening look, but a dozen ceramic pots filled with water-soaked plants might bear more weight on your terrace than it’s prepared for. Look at more lightweight potting alternatives and different soil mixtures that can lighten the load on your balcony.
HAPPY PLANTING!
By Sten Carlson
A HOME EQUITY LINE OF CREDIT (HELOC) CAN BE A VALUABLE AND CONVENIENT WAY FOR HOMEOWNERS TO ACCESS THE EQUITY THEY HAVE BUILT IN THEIR PROPERTY AND HELP MEET CASH FLOW NEEDS. A HELOC allows borrowers to draw funds as needed, making it a popular choice for financing home renovations, debt consolidation and other expenses. While it may be a more attractive option than traditional loans or other forms of borrowing, it’s important to be aware of not just the opportunities it creates, but potential pitfalls as well.
A HELOC is a revolving account that can be established for a set amount (limited to a percentage of your equity in the home) and accessed as funding needs arise. While there are some nominal costs associated with establishing a HELOC, it is typically less expensive to set up than other forms of borrowing.
An interest rate is associated with any funds you borrow through your HELOC. In most cases, the rate charged will be variable, subject to change as market interest rates move up and down. Interest is only charged when you’ve borrowed money.
MAKING GOOD CHOICES WITH YOUR HELOC Borrowing against your home equity may be most effective when:
• Paying off loans with a higher interest charge, such as credit card debt
• Investing in a home improvement that may increase the value of your home over time
• Funding a big-ticket purchase that can be classified as a necessity, such as another car for the household
• Paying for a major, unexpected expense or providing a financial bridge if you should lose your job
Prudent borrowing is important with a HELOC. For instance, it’s best to avoid borrowing from this source of funds to make frivolous purchases or to pay for a vacation. When used, this money should provide a long-term benefit that will make the months and years of repayments and interest charges worthwhile.
While HELOCs offer tremendous benefits to those who have built up significant home equity, it’s important to understand potential downsides to this form of borrowing. Consider that your home -- perhaps one of your most important financial investments and, quite literally,
the roof over your head -- is being used as collateral to fund other expenses. That creates a risk in the event the market value of your home should decline, which may require you to pay back the debt sooner. Or, if you miss payments, the borrower could foreclose on your property.
Even though the HELOC is based on your home’s value, interest is not completely tax deductible. Only interest on funds borrowed to buy, build or substantially improve the home can be deducted.
One additional caution is to avoid looking at a HELOC as a readily-accessible piggy bank. You need to be discerning in how you use this resource, as the money does have to be paid back with interest, which can create a future financial burden if not used judiciously.
As you weigh the potential of a HELOC, assess how it will work with your overall financial plan. It can help to talk to an advisor about the pros and cons for your own unique circumstances.
WHEN IT COMES TO WEDDING ATTIRE, CHOOSING SUITABLE CLOTHING IS NEARLY AS IMPORTANT AS THE EVENT ITSELF. GROOMS FIND THEMSELVES PONDERING THE OPTIONS OF PURCHASING OR RENTING THEIR SUITS.
While renting may seem like a tempting and budget-friendly option, here are three reasons why purchasing a suit may be the better choice.
THE FIRST REASON IS FIT. When renting there are limited sizes, and it may not be the perfect fit for your body. A suit that you purchase, either custom or off the rack, can be tailored to fit your style. A well-fitting suit makes you look and feel confident.
THE SECOND REASON IS PERSONALIZATION. By purchasing a custom suit, you have the freedom to add personal touches to it to make it special and unique. Monograms, buttons, linings, vests, and other details make the suit a very personal part of your wedding day.
LASTLY... RENTING A SUIT MAY NOT BE COST-EFFECTIVE, IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND WEDDINGS OR OTHER EVENTS IN THE FUTURE. Renting a suit each time can quickly add up. Purchasing a suit that you can wear for other occasions will save you money in the long run.
In conclusion, purchasing will help you to look your best on your big day. With its versatility for other events and the
potential for personal touches, there's no better way to make an essential investment in your wedding attire.
If you are wanting a custom suit, please call the shop and set up a consultation, we would be delighted to be of service.
By Cheryl Lohman
PERMANENT MAKEUP, ALSO KNOWN AS MICROPIGMENTATION OR COSMETIC TATTOOING, HAS A RICH HISTORY THAT SPANS THOUSANDS OF YEARS. The practice of tattooing the skin with pigments to enhance natural beauty and create decorative designs has been found in many ancient cultures, including the
Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. In fact, mummies dating back to 4000 BCE have been found with tattooed eyebrows and eyeliner.
Last year when I visited the Acropolis Museum in Athens, Greece, I was thrilled to see a display of the pigments the ancients used on their statuaries and likely tattoos. Many of these colors are the base of the pigments I use.
In more recent history, permanent makeup is used primarily to correct imperfections and medical conditions such as cleft lip, scars, and breast reconstruction. However, in the 1970s, the technique began to gain popularity among women as a way to enhance their natural beauty.
Early permanent makeup techniques involved using a manual hand tool or coil machine to implant pigment into the skin. These techniques were often painful and imprecise, leading to uneven and unnatural-looking results. However, with advances in technology and the development of new techniques, modern permanent makeup is now safer, more comfortable, and more effective than ever before.
Today, the most common method of permanent makeup is machine-based tattooing. This technique involves using a specialized tattoo machine to deposit pigment into the skin, typically on the eyebrows, eyeliner, and lips. The machine is equipped with a needle or group of needles that move rapidly creating a series of tiny punctures in the skin. The pigment is deposited into the punctures, creating a permanent color that can last for years. Additionally, powerful topical numbing agents are used minimizing any discomfort. In fact, many of my clients fall asleep while I’m working with them. Really!
Overall, permanent makeup has come a long way since its early days as a crude and painful technique. Today's modern methods offer a safe, comfortable, and effective way to enhance natural beauty and achieve long-lasting results. Whether you're looking for fuller eyebrows, defined eyeliner, or a subtle lip tint, permanent makeup can help you achieve the look you desire.
When considering permanent makeup, be sure to have a consultation with a highly trained and qualified artist. This is not a service you want to bargain shop for and you will want to see actual photos of their work. Seek a professional who is a member of the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP). This organization sets standards of practice for its members, which assures the public of the highest levels of professionalism and safety. After permanent makeup, you’ll be among those who enjoy a natural look that lasts a long time.
SUMMERTIME BRINGS ONE OF MY FAVORITE FLOWERS, THE HYDRANGEA. THEIR BEAUTIFUL, SHOWY FLOWERS GRACE A LONG-LIVED SHRUB
They are a wonderful color addition in the shade garden and some varieties accent sunny borders. Hydrangeas make great cut flowers with a few tricks and are excellent dried flowers. They can be used to create a floral hedge. My sister loves the tree form Pee Gee types to accent her landscape. Before you think “Hydrangeas are grandma flowers” and turn the page, recent breeding has created a myriad of new varieties. Hydrangeas are solid performers and with the right treatment are easier care than you’d expect. While most prefer part shade, there are many that will grow in full sun.
Hydrangeas prefer well-drained soil.
Water deeply two or three times a week for new plantings depending on your soil.
Mulching helps hold moisture in. After they’re established, they do need regular watering through the summer to look and flower best. Fertilize yearly. For those that bloom on old wood, prune immediately after flowering. If you need to reduce height it is best to prune a third of the growth back each year.
While there are over 75 species of Hydrangeas, there are five commonly grown types: Big-leaf or French (macrophylla), Panicle or Peegee (paniculata), Oakleaf (quercifolia), and Smooth (arborescens). Big-leaf is the classic pink or blue type with rounded (mophead) or flat (lace cap) flowers. Mopheads are ball shaped. Lace
caps have a flat inflorescence with larger flowers surrounding a lacy center. They are best in part-shade (morning sun and afternoon shade or bright, filtered light all day). New hybrids such as the Endless Summer series will bloom over a longer period and aren’t as picky about pruning. The pH of the soil affects flower color. In acidic soil, flowers will be blue. To change or enhance blueness use sulfur and/or a Rhododendron type fertilizer. Pink flowers bloom when the soil is alkaline. To change flowers to pink, use lime or wood ashes yearly in the fall. Plants produce purple flowers in a neutral pH. There are red and white colored varieties as well.
Panicle or Peegee varieties like the sun, although they will grow and bloom in full morning sun. They bloom on new wood, so a good pruning back will create larger flowers. The conical flowers are either white or lime green and turn pink-red as they age. The newer, ‘Vanilla Strawberry’ variety is stunning with its two-tone flowers.
Oakleaf Hydrangea also have conical flowers but are more pointed than panicle types. They start out cream and change to pink-red as they age. The bonuses of this type are its exfoliating bark and brilliant red fall foliage. The leaf texture is striking as well. Oakleaf types tolerate a little more sun. I grew one in the open in full sun but did get some burn on the leaf ends. Prune just to shape.
Smooth Hydrangeas are not quite as commonly seen but have impressively massive, ball-shaped flowers. ‘Annabelle’ is an older variety and ‘Incrediball’ is newer. There are some varieties with pinktinged flowers. They prefer part shade and bloom on new wood. I had great success pruning these back to just a few inches in late fall.
Take a Hike
By Kris DenningDID YOU KNOW THAT WALKING MAY BE THE SINGLE BEST FORM OF OVERALL EXERCISE THAT YOU CAN DO? It seems like there is a common feeling among people that we must break a hard sweat to get a workout. I disagree. I’ve been walking for the last 20 years by myself, with kids in strollers, and with dogs. Trekking over hills, on pavement, and through forest trails I have been able to maintain my health and my sanity.
Recently I had a coaching client who said her ankles were bothering her when she walked, so she would avoid that and go to the gym and use the bike a couple times a week. To which I said, “what happens in 20 years of avoiding walking?” Is now the time to give up on the most essential activity you will be needing to be doing for the rest of your life? I suggested she give up her gym membership, which she rarely used anyway and start taking a short walk every single day. After just a few weeks of this, she is taking longer pain free walks daily and feels better than she has in decades.
For countless reasons, many people have taken to the pavement and trails to find their health and their bliss. Here are a few good reasons to make walking and/or hiking your number one workout.
GETTING OUTSIDE IN NATURE LIFTS YOUR SPIRITS. Numerous studies indicate that walking reduces symptoms of depression. An immersive walk in nature, like on a hike (some refer to as forest bathing), is particularly beneficial. There is a vibe in nature that we can tap into and become one with. It is peaceful and worry free out there. We could all use some of that.
WALKING WILL HELP YOU MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT. A daily walk is more doable than the two bouts of cardio at the gym a week. A brisk 30 minute walk can burn 200 calories. Take hills and walk further to increase the intensity and calories burned.
WALKING HELPS TO LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE, BLOOD SUGAR, AND REDUCE THE RISK OF HEART DISEASE.
WALKING IS A WEIGHT BEARING ACTIVITY AND THEREFORE STRENGTHENS YOUR BONES. Plus it is low impact so it helps to relieve joint and back pain.
BETTER SLEEP! Any kind of regular exercise will improve your sleep.
IT INCREASES YOUR ENERGY! Even right after a meal you can take a walk and bring yourself out of that comatose state from overeating. It also helps you to digest your food better than the couch.
LESSEN THE RISK OF AGE-RELATED MEMORY DECLINE. A study of 6,000 women age 65 and older found that age related memory decline was significantly less in those that walked more. For men between the ages of 71-93, one study reported those who walked more than a quarter of a mile a day had half the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s than those who walked less.
